“Despite any political circumstances, I remain ‘Ate Honey’ to Isko because in Manila, love of family endures.”
With these moving words, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna reacted to news that ex-Mayor Isko Moreno, who was catapulted to the mayorship by Lacuna’s father, the late Vice Mayor Danilo Lacuna, Sr. and the local party Danilo founded, the Asenso Manileno, will run for mayor in the 2025 elections.
In a statement, Mayor Honey also stressed that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has set the period for filing certificates of candidacy from October 1 to 8, 2024, for those running in the May 12, 2025, national and local elections.
“So, the truth is, it’s not yet the time for politics. It’s a time to prioritize the needs of our people,” she said.
The lady mayor added: “My top priority will always be caring for and serving all Manileños, as mandated by them in the last election. This focus will remain until the filing of candidacies and beyond, if the trust of Manila in our leadership continues.”
“Tanggap ko ang realidad ng pulitika. Batid ng mga Manileño na bago pa man mabuo ang tambalang Isko-Honey noong 2019 elections at mula pa noong nabubuhay pa ang aking ama at Asenso Manileño founder Danilo Lacuna Sr, turingang magkapatid na ang panata namin ni Isko sa isa’t -isa,” she further stated.
The mayor also said that: On my part, that commitment remains as my sibling love for him has not changed. In my heart, I am confident that we are both dedicated to serving the Manileños.”
“Thus, I am giving my dear brother, former Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, time to reconsider his plans. He still has time to reflect on his decision. As his Ate in public service, I am here to guide him,” said Mayor Honey.
She also stated that during the last campaign, Isko and the Manileños placed their trust in her ability as the first female Mayor of Manila.
“I acknowledge that the upcoming election in Manila will be a test for the Manileños to weigh my character, leadership, service, and vision for Manila. This is part of our commitment to democratic principles. We are here not for personal ambition but for the welfare of the Manileños and the honor of our nation, represented by Manila as its capital,” the lady mayor said.
Mayor Honey added: “I respect the decision of former Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, while also acknowledging that he still has time to reconsider his plans.”
I will continue working for Manila because the Manileños are my top priority.
